One man's lifelong passion for fossil collecting will be showcased with a special event at the Vernon Museum.
Bob O'Donnell, known as The Fossil Guy, is the latest in the Hometown Histories Speaker Series, taking place Saturday, Aug. 23 at 1 p.m.
Fun and fascinating facts for all ages will be presented at the event by O'Donnell, who recently relocated to Vernon.
He began collecting fossils as a child during trips to Arkona, ON., and has since dedicated decades to sharing his knowledge through presentations, field trips, and museum work.
As the former curator of the Arkona Lions Museum and Information Centre, O'Donnell has inspired countless families to explore the natural world around them, starting with what lies beneath their feet.
鈥淢y goal has always been to help families make memories by learning and exploring together,鈥� said O'Donnell. 鈥淔ossil collecting is something kids love. It鈥檚 hands-on, adventurous, and connects them to the planet in a really exciting way.鈥�
The presentation marks a new direction for the Hometown Histories series, presented by and in support of the Museum and the Okanagan Historical Society.
While previous talks have focused on the lives and legacies of notable people from Vernon鈥檚 past, O'Donnell鈥檚 talk will spotlight the land itself鈥攊ts deep natural history and the ancient creatures preserved in stone.
鈥淲e鈥檙e especially thrilled to open up our speaker series to younger audiences,鈥� said Gwyneth Evans, Archives Manager at the Museum & Archives of Vernon. 鈥淭his is our first talk specifically designed to welcome children and families, but the content will be just as engaging for adults. It鈥檚 a wonderful opportunity for people of all ages to connect with the natural history of our world in a fun, hands-on, and accessible way.鈥�
Tickets are $10 per adult and $7 per child through
